Green Day

Slemish in the distance

Slemish, historically called Slieve Mish, in the townland of Carnstroan a few miles east of Ballymena, in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is the remains of the plug of an extinct volcano. Tradition holds that Saint Patrick was enslaved as a youth and brought to this area to tend sheep herds on Slemish, and that during this time he found God.

A view from the other side

A circular walk starts from the car park at the base of Slemish, up a steep rocky track to the summit some 1437 feet above sea level. The track down is much gentler and leads back to the car park. On a clear day, as the song goes,it is possible to see as far as the Sperrins.

On this our National Holiday…. May your life abound with blessings:

A soft breeze when summer comes, a warm fireside in winter

And always: The warm, soft smile of a friend.

Grant us a sense of humour, Lord, the saving grace to see a joke,

To win some happiness from life, and pass it on to other folks.

♣ ♣ ♣

8 thoughts on “Green Day

  1. Cardi

    It is thought that Patrick’s original name was Maelwyn Succat and he was a British Celt possibly born in Wales around 387. Britain was a Roman colony until around 409 AD when the last legions left. That would have made him a Roman citizen.The Celtic Britons had adopted many aspects of Roman culture and were referred to as ‘Romanized Britons’. In today’s terms he would be a Welshman.

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  2. Grannymar Post author

    Celia – It is on a clear day.

    gigi – It didn’t rain the day those photos were taken, but all the hills around were covered in snow this morning.

    Cardi – Do you want him back? The Post office will be closed tomorrow, so I’ll bundle him up and send him on his merry way on Tuesday!! 😆

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  3. The Old Fossil

    I love your countryside! I am sure there would be times that I would get as tired of the rain as you do at times … but what a beautiful land you get in exchange!

    In celebration of Mar. 17th in America, we drink green beer and pinch anyone not wearing green. Don’t ever accuse us of being particularly bright! 🙁

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  4. Grannymar Post author

    Fossie – The rain is the price we pay for our greenery. We have had more than enough in the last couple of years. Two years ago at this time, I was in Limerick, enjoying warm sunshine and walking outdoors in a t-shirt. This year… winter layers and a rain hat or umbrella are the order of the day. Snow and rain are fighting a battle as I type.

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  5. Maxi

    Thank you for the history of Saint Patrick, GM. I never knew this.

    “…the saving grace to see a joke … pass it on.” Love this. Happy Belated Saint Patrick’s Day.

    blessings to you ~ maxi

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